Market Bags

The sun is out, my tomato plants are gong nuts, and I am looking forward to some farmer's market shopping this weekend.  I usually remember to bring along a ratty old tote bag, but more often than I'd like to admit, I end up with plastic.  I would love to have something a little nicer this year.  Enter the fabulous handmade market bag!

For you crocheters out there, the Crocheted Linen Grocery Tote, a free pattern from the the talented and generous folks at The Purl Bee.

Ann worked this up with two skeins of Tahki Cotton Classic, and the original pattern calls for just one skein of Euroflax linen from Louet.  If you love this but you are doubting your crochet skills, consider Ann's class on Monday, August 8 and 15.  This is a great project for a beginner, and Ann will walk you through the whole project.

Not to leave the non-crocheters stuck with plastic, we have a few nice knitted options, too.  Elisa's Nest Tote, also from The Purl Bee, is perfect for the market, the library, the knitting group, the playground...

One skein of the gorgeous Cascade Ultra Pima is all you need for this.  The project includes some cool details, including the attached I-cord handles.  Learn something new with the easy-to-follow tutorial included with the instructions on the Purl Bee website.

Local designer (and Close Knitter) Lars Jensen designed the Knit Mesh Shopping Bag, and we have the pattern available at the shop.  Lars gives options for different sizes and mesh patterns, so you can design your own look from one pattern.

This sample is knit with Plymouth Fantasy Naturale, but it would be great in any worsted weight cotton.  The Debbie Bliss Eco Aran Fairtrade Cotton would be really nice if you prefer a solid color.

There are so many patterns out these for these kinds of bags.  Which one is your favorite?  Join the cause and work to eliminate the plastic!